29550, Hartsville, South Carolina Lung Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 29550, Hartsville, South Carolina is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 90.51 percent of the residents in 29550 has some form of health insurance. 43.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 59.79 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 29550 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 7,726 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29550. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 5,465 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 894 health care providers accessible to residents in 29550, Hartsville, South Carolina.

**Lung Cancer Score Analysis: Hartsville, SC (ZIP Code 29550)**

This analysis evaluates the healthcare landscape in Hartsville, South Carolina (ZIP Code 29550), focusing on factors relevant to lung cancer care, particularly primary care availability and the performance of local physicians. The goal is to provide a nuanced understanding of the resources available to patients and identify areas for improvement. The assessment considers physician-to-patient ratios, the presence of standout practices, telemedicine adoption, and the integration of mental health resources, all crucial elements in comprehensive lung cancer treatment.

The foundation of effective lung cancer care rests upon robust primary care. In Hartsville, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a critical factor. Analyzing the physician-to-patient ratio provides a baseline understanding. Data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), alongside publicly available information from the US Census Bureau, allows for an estimation of this ratio. A lower ratio, reflecting more patients per physician, can indicate potential access challenges. This is particularly relevant in a rural setting like Hartsville, where geographical limitations can exacerbate access issues.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality and accessibility of primary care are paramount. The assessment considers the presence of practices that consistently demonstrate excellence in patient care, particularly those with a demonstrated focus on preventative care, early detection, and patient education. These practices often employ a multidisciplinary approach, coordinating care with specialists and offering robust patient support systems. The presence of such practices is a significant positive factor in the overall lung cancer score.

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative force in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. Its adoption in Hartsville is carefully examined. Telemedicine allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even some diagnostic services remotely, reducing the need for travel and improving access for those with mobility limitations or geographical constraints. The analysis looks at the extent to which local physicians and practices utilize telemedicine platforms, the types of services offered, and the ease of access for patients. A higher level of telemedicine adoption contributes positively to the score.

Lung cancer diagnosis and treatment are emotionally taxing experiences. The integration of mental health resources is therefore essential. The analysis investigates the availability of mental health services within primary care practices and the broader healthcare ecosystem in Hartsville. This includes access to therapists, counselors, and support groups, all of which play a vital role in supporting patients through the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. The presence and accessibility of these resources are carefully considered in the overall evaluation.

The assessment also considers the presence of specialists in the area, such as pulmonologists and oncologists. While the primary focus is on primary care, the availability of specialized care is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. The analysis examines the number of specialists practicing in or near Hartsville, their affiliations with hospitals and cancer centers, and their commitment to utilizing evidence-based treatment protocols. The proximity and accessibility of these specialists are a significant factor in the overall score.

The analysis further examines the availability of diagnostic tools, such as CT scanners and other imaging equipment, within the local healthcare infrastructure. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for successful lung cancer treatment. The presence of these resources, along with the efficiency of the diagnostic process, contributes to the overall score.

The assessment of individual practices involves a review of patient reviews, accreditation status, and the adoption of best practices. This includes evaluating the practice's commitment to patient education, its use of electronic health records, and its participation in quality improvement initiatives. Practices that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient-centered care and continuous improvement receive higher scores.

The overall lung cancer score is a composite measure, reflecting the weighted contributions of all the factors discussed above. It is not a simple ranking but a nuanced evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape in Hartsville. The score provides a snapshot of the current state of care and identifies areas where improvements can be made.

The analysis also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on access to care. This includes the percentage of the population that is uninsured or underinsured, the prevalence of chronic diseases, and the overall health of the community. These factors can significantly impact a patient's ability to access timely and appropriate care.

The analysis acknowledges that healthcare is a dynamic field. The information gathered is based on data available at the time of the assessment and is subject to change. Regular updates and ongoing monitoring are essential to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the analysis. The goal is to provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, helping to improve the quality of lung cancer care in Hartsville.

The final score is presented as a comprehensive assessment of the healthcare landscape in Hartsville. The analysis is designed to be informative and actionable, providing insights that can be used to improve patient care and address healthcare disparities. It serves as a starting point for further investigation and community engagement.

The insights gleaned from this analysis can be further enriched and visualized through the use of advanced mapping tools. To explore the spatial distribution of healthcare resources in Hartsville and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape, we encourage you to explore the capabilities of CartoChrome maps. By visualizing the data in a geographical context, you can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the community.